In this episode, host Jon and guest Ronda Jackson explore effective strategies for handling bad debtors and ensuring timely payments in the architecture industry. They offer advice on how to prevent bad debts by knowing your client and conducting due diligence upfront, including using a new customer onboarding form, running credit checks, and regularly updating customer financial reviews. Ronda emphasises the importance of maintaining open and friendly communication, utilising reminders and direct communication for overdue invoices, and considering legal steps like charging interest, sending a ..read more

In this episode, Jon offers a deep dive into lead generation strategies for small to solo architecture practice owners. Jon highlights the significance of lead generation in avoiding the feast and famine cycle common to many businesses, emphasising the importance of both inbound and outbound leads. He busts common myths surrounding lead generation and outlines various misconceptions, such as the overreliance on social media for leads. The episode provides practical advice on generating outbound leads, including understanding the difference between cold, warm, and hot leads, utilising a strateg ..read more

In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon explores how architects can pursue a location-independent lifestyle and build a career that incorporates their passion for travel. Guest Sara Kolata, an architect turned digital transformation expert, shares her transition from traditional architecture practice to embracing digital nomadism and online business. Sara discusses her mission to improve the financial well-being of architects, her journey across various countries, the challenges and learnings from living a nomadic lifestyle, and how she eventually found a balance th ..read more

In this episode, host Jon interviews Mahmood Reza, a business finance expert, tax advisor, and author of 'I Hate Numbers.' This discussion focuses on the importance for architects, especially those running solo or small practices, to understand their financial numbers for business growth, tax savings, and overall financial health. Mahmood emphasises the significance of planning, recognising money's role in achieving business goals, and overcoming financial stress. They explore the 'Plan It, Do It, Profit' concept which outlines the journey from planning to profitability. Mahmood also shares in ..read more

In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon discusses the importance and effectiveness of email newsletters for solo and small firm architecture practice owners with Nikita Morell, a copywriter who specialises in the architecture industry. They explore how newsletters can create a direct and personal connection with the audience, bypassing social media algorithms, and emphasise consistency and personalization over visual design. Nikita shares insights on crafting engaging content, segmenting the audience for tailored messaging, and strategies for building an email list. And shares ..read more

In this episode, Jon announces exciting developments for the Architecture Business Club, aiming to extend its value beyond just being a podcast. The club, intended for solo and small firm architecture practice owners, is about to introduce several new offerings to foster a community within the architecture industry. Key announcements include the launch of a new website for enhanced accessibility to resources, the release of a free 'Architecture Business Blueprint' for business growth, and plans for an interactive community platform that may feature discussion groups, webinars, Q&A sessions ..read more

In the episode, host Jon interviews Ian Shirvell, a Chartered Architectural Technologist and the founder of Ora Design Architecture. Ian shares his journey from a G-grade high school student to a successful sole practitioner in architecture. Ian discusses how he started his career as a carpenter's apprentice, then moved into architectural technology after stints at a building surveyors, a timber frame company, and two prestigious RIBA registered practices. He chats about the influence his family had on his career choices. Ian discusses his difficulties at school due to undiagnosed dyslexia, hi ..read more

In this episode, host Jon is joined by personal brand and visibility coach Fifi Mason. They discuss how to be more visible and authentic when running your architecture business. Fifi shares strategies to overcome self-silencing, an internal barrier that prevents individuals from expressing their thoughts or ideas due to fear of perceived consequences. Fifi also highlights the importance of being seen for business owners, especially on social media platforms, and provides practical tips for posting on these platforms. In the episode, they also have a light-hearted conversation about their share ..read more

Jon interviews entrepreneur Chris Ducker about the power of mastermind groups and how they can bolster your business. They discuss the two different types of masterminds; peer-led and leader-led, and the benefits and misconceptions about both. Chris shares his experiences, highlighting the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and self-education. He emphasises the vital role of the leader in leader-led masterminds. Chris also shares a bit about his background, including his love for sketching, which was inspired by his father's profession as an architect. Today's Guest... Ch ..read more

In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon speaks with Mike Cole, an IFC-accredited coach and qualified accountant, about embracing neurodiversity in your architecture business. Mike discusses his experience with dyslexia and the strengths it has brought to his work, such as problem-solving and big-picture thinking. He shares his journey of self-acceptance and encourages listeners to lean into their uniqueness and find the most efficient ways for them to work. He also highlights the importance of understanding oneself, both strengths and weaknesses, to build a profitable future-pr ..read more